Therapists in Portland, OR

View neighborhoods in Portland
Photo of Lisa Sacker, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Lisa Sacker
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, QMHP, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
As a mental health professional, I bring nearly a decade of experience to benefit clients from a broad range of backgrounds. My professional style is holistic, high-energy, compassionate, organized, and solution focused with motivation to assist clients in meeting their needs and develop skills through therapeutic treatment to achieve their optimal level of emotional health. I am available to all individuals at various stages of their mental health journey. Similarly to my choice of approach, the ultimate objective of our time together will differ between individuals, and we can work together to identify your personal goals.
As a mental health professional, I bring nearly a decade of experience to benefit clients from a broad range of backgrounds. My professional style is holistic, high-energy, compassionate, organized, and solution focused with motivation to assist clients in meeting their needs and develop skills through therapeutic treatment to achieve their optimal level of emotional health. I am available to all individuals at various stages of their mental health journey. Similarly to my choice of approach, the ultimate objective of our time together will differ between individuals, and we can work together to identify your personal goals.
(971) 247-1543 View (971) 247-1543
Photo of Alissa Holmes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Alissa Holmes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
While we can't always change our circumstances, we can always learn to respond to life's challenges in a way that correspond with our most deeply-held values. If depression or anxiety are stealing joy from your life, we can use the therapeutic space to help increase your resiliency and coping skills so you can refocus on the things that matter most to you. If you are struggling with substances or alcohol, we can non-judgmentally explore what kind of change you may wish to make. If you're not sure what you need, you just know you need some kind of help, that's okay too! Therapy is a place for compassionate self-exploration.
While we can't always change our circumstances, we can always learn to respond to life's challenges in a way that correspond with our most deeply-held values. If depression or anxiety are stealing joy from your life, we can use the therapeutic space to help increase your resiliency and coping skills so you can refocus on the things that matter most to you. If you are struggling with substances or alcohol, we can non-judgmentally explore what kind of change you may wish to make. If you're not sure what you need, you just know you need some kind of help, that's okay too! Therapy is a place for compassionate self-exploration.
(503) 966-9455 View (503) 966-9455
Photo of Ann Krueger, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Ann Krueger
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Support for the curious. My counseling practice is centered around assisting clients in creating a deeper conscious connection to self. I guide clients into greater integration using mindful somatic psychotherapy (Hakomi), illuminating inner processes, disowned parts of self, well-practiced strategies for surviving and thriving, longings and desires, dreams and fears. With greater insight we can create a life in better alignment with ourselves. I work with an attachment and trauma-informed lens, and also use creative practices in my work. As an acupuncturist, philosophies from East Asian Medicine also inform my counseling work.
Support for the curious. My counseling practice is centered around assisting clients in creating a deeper conscious connection to self. I guide clients into greater integration using mindful somatic psychotherapy (Hakomi), illuminating inner processes, disowned parts of self, well-practiced strategies for surviving and thriving, longings and desires, dreams and fears. With greater insight we can create a life in better alignment with ourselves. I work with an attachment and trauma-informed lens, and also use creative practices in my work. As an acupuncturist, philosophies from East Asian Medicine also inform my counseling work.
(503) 483-8521 View (503) 483-8521
Photo of Jen Joseph, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Jen Joseph
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
As a specialist in sex and relationship, I treat a variety of issues including: infidelity and betrayal recovery, out of control sexual behavior aka 'sex addiction,' desire discrepancies, low-sex or no-sex marriages, sex pain, 'sexual performance' issues, challenges with ethical non-monogamy or a desire to open up a relationship, conflicts around porn or fetishes, religious sexual shame, arguing + communication issues, lack of intimacy, major life transitions and couples on the brink of divorce who want clarity and confidence about how to move forward.
As a specialist in sex and relationship, I treat a variety of issues including: infidelity and betrayal recovery, out of control sexual behavior aka 'sex addiction,' desire discrepancies, low-sex or no-sex marriages, sex pain, 'sexual performance' issues, challenges with ethical non-monogamy or a desire to open up a relationship, conflicts around porn or fetishes, religious sexual shame, arguing + communication issues, lack of intimacy, major life transitions and couples on the brink of divorce who want clarity and confidence about how to move forward.
(971) 260-4397 View (971) 260-4397
Photo of Richard Seigler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Richard Seigler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
***Currently available for in-person and Teletherapy appointments*** I am passionate about people leading empowered, connected, and purposeful lives. I provide counseling services to diverse clients as they learn, change, grow, and function in increasingly inspired, creative, healthy, and adaptive ways. I work collaboratively with clients in identifying needs, making changes, and practicing new skills in a safe and supportive setting. I am experienced in working with adults, couples, families, as well as adolescent clients, on issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, identity, and unwanted thoughts or emotions.
***Currently available for in-person and Teletherapy appointments*** I am passionate about people leading empowered, connected, and purposeful lives. I provide counseling services to diverse clients as they learn, change, grow, and function in increasingly inspired, creative, healthy, and adaptive ways. I work collaboratively with clients in identifying needs, making changes, and practicing new skills in a safe and supportive setting. I am experienced in working with adults, couples, families, as well as adolescent clients, on issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, identity, and unwanted thoughts or emotions.
(503) 483-8565 View (503) 483-8565
Photo of Jeff Hernandez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Jeff Hernandez
Pre-Licensed Professional, CRC, SRC, IAC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Our purpose is to help people live free from sexual addiction, heal from trauma and experience the joy of real intimacy. It takes work to make these dreams happen. It takes having a plan. That is what we provide. A proven plan and way out. We work with addicts and their spouses to get sober and heal from this disease. Whether it's pornography or other forms of infidelity we can help.
Our purpose is to help people live free from sexual addiction, heal from trauma and experience the joy of real intimacy. It takes work to make these dreams happen. It takes having a plan. That is what we provide. A proven plan and way out. We work with addicts and their spouses to get sober and heal from this disease. Whether it's pornography or other forms of infidelity we can help.
(503) 738-1106 View (503) 738-1106
Photo of NT cares, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
NT cares, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Hello! I formed NTcares group with like-minded colleagues. We are highly skilled professionals offering support to clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. You want to be heard, understood and have powerful tools to bring meaningful change to your life? We are here for you!
Hello! I formed NTcares group with like-minded colleagues. We are highly skilled professionals offering support to clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. You want to be heard, understood and have powerful tools to bring meaningful change to your life? We are here for you!
(971) 832-5684 View (971) 832-5684
Photo of Maria Lytle, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Maria Lytle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I strongly value my clients’ unique identities and seek to nurture your expression of sexuality, culture, and spirituality. I strive to provide deeply present, imaginative, compassionate and holistic care. My therapeutic interests include, but are not limited to, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, sexual shame and dissatisfaction, racial/ethnic identity, perfectionism, chronic illness and disability, trauma and PTSD. I have special interest and experience in working with Latino clients.
I strongly value my clients’ unique identities and seek to nurture your expression of sexuality, culture, and spirituality. I strive to provide deeply present, imaginative, compassionate and holistic care. My therapeutic interests include, but are not limited to, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, sexual shame and dissatisfaction, racial/ethnic identity, perfectionism, chronic illness and disability, trauma and PTSD. I have special interest and experience in working with Latino clients.
(971) 273-1685 View (971) 273-1685
Photo of Laura La Rosa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Laura La Rosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
You may be an adult who is empowered in some areas but stuck in others or you may be someone struggling to find meaning in your life. Who ever you are, you are the navigator of your life. Your personal narrative is front and center and you decide what isn't working. Together we will dis-empower the stories in your life that no longer serve you and craft the narrative that is most affirming of who you are or who you want to be.
You may be an adult who is empowered in some areas but stuck in others or you may be someone struggling to find meaning in your life. Who ever you are, you are the navigator of your life. Your personal narrative is front and center and you decide what isn't working. Together we will dis-empower the stories in your life that no longer serve you and craft the narrative that is most affirming of who you are or who you want to be.
(971) 283-7112 View (971) 283-7112
Photo of Naomi Berg, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Naomi Berg
Professional Counselor Associate , MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I specialize in supporting adult survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual abuse or assault, or climate-event trauma, and people who are experiencing acute stress, complex trauma, posttraumatic stress, panic, dissociation, disconnection, loss, grief, anxiety, depression, existential crisis, death-anxiety, eco-grief, eco-anxiety, or eco-trauma.
I specialize in supporting adult survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual abuse or assault, or climate-event trauma, and people who are experiencing acute stress, complex trauma, posttraumatic stress, panic, dissociation, disconnection, loss, grief, anxiety, depression, existential crisis, death-anxiety, eco-grief, eco-anxiety, or eco-trauma.
(971) 571-5636 View (971) 571-5636
Photo of Danesh Oleshko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Danesh Oleshko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, LLM, CADC I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
My commitment is to offer effective therapy. As a person seeking therapy, you need a counselor who can understand and meet you where healing and growth is waiting to take place within you. Let's connect and find out if that counselor is me. I offer depth therapy that is emotionally sensitive, trauma-informed and transpersonal: integrating soul-searching and the management of daily life & relationships. My practice is integrative: weaving elements of nature therapy, body-centered expression and a receptive, feminine/masculine balanced approach.
My commitment is to offer effective therapy. As a person seeking therapy, you need a counselor who can understand and meet you where healing and growth is waiting to take place within you. Let's connect and find out if that counselor is me. I offer depth therapy that is emotionally sensitive, trauma-informed and transpersonal: integrating soul-searching and the management of daily life & relationships. My practice is integrative: weaving elements of nature therapy, body-centered expression and a receptive, feminine/masculine balanced approach.
(541) 204-8870 View (541) 204-8870
Photo of Barbara Lee Biedrzycki, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Barbara Lee Biedrzycki
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
It is my belief that people have the skills, courage and ability to overcome their life problems when provided the opportunity to safely explore what the challenges are and what skills they already possess to address them. As your therapist, I will work to understand your symptoms, stressors, problems and concerns. I will assist you in identifying what it is you would like to change about yourself, situation or beliefs in order to achieve your best self. I work with adult individuals, adolescents, and couples.
It is my belief that people have the skills, courage and ability to overcome their life problems when provided the opportunity to safely explore what the challenges are and what skills they already possess to address them. As your therapist, I will work to understand your symptoms, stressors, problems and concerns. I will assist you in identifying what it is you would like to change about yourself, situation or beliefs in order to achieve your best self. I work with adult individuals, adolescents, and couples.
(971) 264-7616 View (971) 264-7616
Photo of Hanna Jordan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Hanna Jordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you're looking for a safe and supportive place to explore possibilities for change, growth, and healing in your life or in a relationship, I can help. Whether you face increasingly stressful life circumstances - feel disconnected from work, family, friends, life dreams - stuck in self-defeating patterns or challenging relationship dynamics - or struggling with self-esteem, chronic pain, or residual trauma - this very moment can be a turning point in a new direction. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, or to talk about therapy, counseling, or herbal consultations.
If you're looking for a safe and supportive place to explore possibilities for change, growth, and healing in your life or in a relationship, I can help. Whether you face increasingly stressful life circumstances - feel disconnected from work, family, friends, life dreams - stuck in self-defeating patterns or challenging relationship dynamics - or struggling with self-esteem, chronic pain, or residual trauma - this very moment can be a turning point in a new direction. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, or to talk about therapy, counseling, or herbal consultations.
(503) 567-2938 View (503) 567-2938
Photo of Kari Lowe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kari Lowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
"Experiencing moments of emotional distress due to life challenges is a common human experience. At times, however, life’s hardships can overwhelm our minds and bodies, leaving us feeling overly stressed, unwell, depressed, out of balance, and/or empty. Whether the source of the distress was a specific event, trauma or loss, a relationship dynamic, or in response to a life transition, I believe we all have the capacity for healing and personal growth, as well as the potential to create a more meaningful life.
"Experiencing moments of emotional distress due to life challenges is a common human experience. At times, however, life’s hardships can overwhelm our minds and bodies, leaving us feeling overly stressed, unwell, depressed, out of balance, and/or empty. Whether the source of the distress was a specific event, trauma or loss, a relationship dynamic, or in response to a life transition, I believe we all have the capacity for healing and personal growth, as well as the potential to create a more meaningful life.
(971) 203-0729 View (971) 203-0729
Photo of Emily Adler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Emily Adler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
My passion is to connect with people. I have found supporting folks experiencing stress and anxiety in their lives is a calling of mine. If we work together, we will develop tools, identify thinking errors and work toward increasing your overall happiness. My focus is on finding solutions that work for you. Together we will work to build a foundation where you can access tools for happiness the rest of your life.
My passion is to connect with people. I have found supporting folks experiencing stress and anxiety in their lives is a calling of mine. If we work together, we will develop tools, identify thinking errors and work toward increasing your overall happiness. My focus is on finding solutions that work for you. Together we will work to build a foundation where you can access tools for happiness the rest of your life.
(971) 265-6937 View (971) 265-6937
Photo of Nicole Dove, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Nicole Dove
LPC Intern, LPC, Intern
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I work with various issues including infertility, pregnancy and postpartum, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, stress management, grief and loss, and marriage/relationship.
I work with various issues including infertility, pregnancy and postpartum, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, stress management, grief and loss, and marriage/relationship.
(503) 966-3199 View (503) 966-3199
Photo of Malia Graves, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Malia Graves
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Are you feeling like your relationships are stressed, disconnected, or just not the same as they used to be? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or not like yourself? - Learning how to manage our emotions and communicate effectively can be tricky, but especially with our families and partners. Don't take on the challenge alone, build the skills to manage your mental health effectively with the support of a licensed mental health professional. My intention is to support your healing and guide you towards sustainable goals that will let you feel safe, heard, and connected. Let me help you take the first steps towards growth!
Are you feeling like your relationships are stressed, disconnected, or just not the same as they used to be? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or not like yourself? - Learning how to manage our emotions and communicate effectively can be tricky, but especially with our families and partners. Don't take on the challenge alone, build the skills to manage your mental health effectively with the support of a licensed mental health professional. My intention is to support your healing and guide you towards sustainable goals that will let you feel safe, heard, and connected. Let me help you take the first steps towards growth!
(971) 308-5256 View (971) 308-5256
Photo of Bridget Saladino, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Bridget Saladino
Professional Counselor Associate, MDiv, LPCA, NHA AT, KAT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I provide a therapeutic bridge to healing, improved relationships, and how you want to be. We all experience some amount of trauma, grief, and loss, struggle with transitions, and frustration in our most important relationships. Healing and transformation are possible. You deserve to be heard and seen. I work with all age groups, genders, orientations, ethnicities, and belief systems with an affirming, non-judgmental approach. Are you ready for a breakthrough? I have the tools to help you break through quickly. Just need encouragement? We'll move at your pace on whatever you are ready to face with the tools to keep you safe.
I provide a therapeutic bridge to healing, improved relationships, and how you want to be. We all experience some amount of trauma, grief, and loss, struggle with transitions, and frustration in our most important relationships. Healing and transformation are possible. You deserve to be heard and seen. I work with all age groups, genders, orientations, ethnicities, and belief systems with an affirming, non-judgmental approach. Are you ready for a breakthrough? I have the tools to help you break through quickly. Just need encouragement? We'll move at your pace on whatever you are ready to face with the tools to keep you safe.
(503) 852-5662 View (503) 852-5662
Photo of Joanne Baum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Joanne Baum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I partner with you to explore options and heal whatever is getting in your way & keeping you uncomfortably stuck. Our goal is to have you live the life you want to live, how you want to live it. I'm available for TeleHealth Sessions throughout Florida. If you want to tackle issues such as: Addiction, Codependency, Trauma, Sexuality, Unmanageable Stress and Anxiety, Gambling, ADD/ADHD, Feeling Intimidated by a Life Transition, Feeling Stuck, or wanting to make Personal or Career Changes, we can work together to meet your needs. I use Brainspotting, talk therapies, & a variety of treatment methods like CBT, MI, & DBT with you.
I partner with you to explore options and heal whatever is getting in your way & keeping you uncomfortably stuck. Our goal is to have you live the life you want to live, how you want to live it. I'm available for TeleHealth Sessions throughout Florida. If you want to tackle issues such as: Addiction, Codependency, Trauma, Sexuality, Unmanageable Stress and Anxiety, Gambling, ADD/ADHD, Feeling Intimidated by a Life Transition, Feeling Stuck, or wanting to make Personal or Career Changes, we can work together to meet your needs. I use Brainspotting, talk therapies, & a variety of treatment methods like CBT, MI, & DBT with you.
(971) 286-5071 View (971) 286-5071
Photo of Andrea Valde, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Andrea Valde
Professional Counselor Associate, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals navigating impact of traumatic experiences, disability related to physical and mental health concerns, impacts of aging, end of life needs, chronic pain, substance use challenges, and adjusting to major life changes. I have valued supporting effective interpersonal communication, developing coping strategies relevant to each individual, mindfulness practice, and developing healthy dynamics with natural supports.
I have experience working with individuals navigating impact of traumatic experiences, disability related to physical and mental health concerns, impacts of aging, end of life needs, chronic pain, substance use challenges, and adjusting to major life changes. I have valued supporting effective interpersonal communication, developing coping strategies relevant to each individual, mindfulness practice, and developing healthy dynamics with natural supports.
(503) 664-7872 View (503) 664-7872

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.